Economic Consequences of Coexistence Between GM and Non-GM Crops

The EU's decision to introduce labelling thresholds for the adventitious presence of genetically modified (GM) material in non-GM products, necessary to safeguard consumer choice, paved the way for a regulated coexistence between GM and non-GM crops. There are no arrangements for regulated coexistence at farm level outside the EU. Nevertheless, exporting countries engaged in GM cultivation that want to sell commodities to one of the countries with labelling requirements have developed a new approach of coexistence between GM and non-GM farming that is market-driven. Both types of coexistence also occur beyond the farm gate. The potential economic impact of introducing coexistence measures, monitoring these measures and establishing liability schemes can be felt at different levels of the food/feed chain. This paper reviews the existing literature on the topic with the aim of drawing ex ante and, when feasible, ex post conclusions on these economic consequences.

GOMEZ BARBERO Manuel;  RODRIGUEZ CEREZO Emilio; 

2007-12-20

Asociación Española de Economía Agraria

JRC38003